Capital to the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, Thimphu is perhaps the smallest capital in the world. Thimphu is a gallery of traditional Bhutanese art, architecture, culture, and tradition and above all still so ethnic and pure. For most part of its history, Bhutan has tried consciously to save its culture from the blunt influences of the western world. It is not that modernity has not reached this region, but they are being introduced in a phased and balanced manner that is unheard of at any place in the world. All these make Thimphu and other parts of the country a unique destination.

What To Do

The most important aspect Thimphu is its culture and its natural beauty, both of them giving it a unique advantage. Make sure that you have visited all the important attractions in Thimphu in the first place. Shopping for exotic items in the local markets and handicrafts emporiums is an experience in itself and shows you many aspects of local culture that is religiously protected from outside influences. Dining in some of the ethnic restaurant is an unforgettable experience. The entire region around Thimphu has excellent trekking routes of different levels giving you ample opportunities for hiking, trekking, river rafting, and wildlife excursions.

Sightseeing

Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion)
First built in 1661, the Dzong dominates the town of Thimphu. Except the central keep, the entire structure was rebuilt in 1961-62 and now houses the main government departments, the National Assembly, the throne room of the king, and summer headquarters of the Central Monastic Body.

Simtokha Dzong
Built in 1627, this Dzong is oldest in Thimphu and gateway to the Thimphu Valley. The Dzong houses Rigney School for Dzongkha and monastic studies. There are beautiful frescoes and slate carvings in Simtokha.

Streets of Thimphu
The most enjoyable experience of being in Thimphu is to taking strolls around the streets here. Weekend markets of Thimphu sell everything under the sun that is being created in Bhutan. Hordes of villagers sell vegetables, newspapers, red chillies, traditional Bhutanese masks, and carpets.

Other Attractions
Other important attractions in the city include the new National Library, the High Court, the Royal Bhutan Golf Course, and Convention Centre.

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